What if the biggest threat to success isn’t funding or competition, but clinging too tightly to your own idea? In this conversation with publishing veteran Terry Whalin, we uncover the hidden pitfalls of idea infatuation. Learn how to stay passionate without locking yourself into a single, untested concept. Discover why early, honest feedback outweighs secret planning and how strategic pivots turn pipe dreams into products people crave.
By embracing frank critique and focusing on genuine customer pain points, you align your vision with what the world actually wants. The book industry’s relentless churn mirrors the entrepreneurial landscape—countless new ideas flood in daily, but only a few survive. Whether drafting pages or launching a new venture, letting the market guide your decisions is the key to lasting impact.
Condensed Guidance from the Field:
Prioritize the problem over any one solution. Invite critical feedback before scaling, even if it stings. If the response is tepid, pivot early. Take full ownership of the process—no one else will do it for you. Remember, it’s the market that decides if you’ve struck gold. Test, refine, and iterate until you deliver something people genuinely need.
Watch the Full Episode on Idea Infatuation with special guest Terry Whalin below:
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